Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis has expressed strong support for a proposal to ban children under the age of 15 from using social media platforms.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing foreign media, that this initiative aligns with a growing trend across Europe to implement age-based restrictions aimed at safeguarding the mental health of minors.
In a video message shared on his social media accounts, the Prime Minister noted that experts have confirmed the significant harm these platforms can cause to children.
"We must protect our children," Babis emphasized.
Currently, several countries are moving toward stricter social media regulations:
Australia became the first country to ban social media access for those under 16 in December last year.
Spain and Greece have proposed similar bans for teenagers.
France and the United Kingdom are also adopting tougher stances against the negative impacts of social media.
Deputy Prime Minister Karel Havlicek stated that the Cabinet of Ministers is seriously considering the ban. If the decision is finalized, the relevant legislative act is expected to be presented within this year.
The debate over social media regulation has intensified globally as governments grapple with the digital safety of the younger generation. In Azerbaijan, similar discussions regarding the protection of children from harmful online content remain a priority for relevant state bodies. These measures often involve balancing digital literacy with legislative safeguards to ensure a secure online environment for the youth.